Making An Impact

Dedicated to the memory of Gabriel Martinez, 2000-2016

On August 1, 15 year old Gabriel Martinez drowned in a family pool in California. His parents were in the process of moving there, but he had gone out early. Gabe was my close friend Ruthie's nephew. When I directed Ruthie's wedding last year, I had the opportunity to get acquainted with this family. I have a nephew about the same age, so the loss has been personal for me. I have been praying for this precious family and can't imagine what they might be going through.

Since Gabe's passing, my friend Ruthie organized a GoFundMe campaign to transport Gabe from California back here to Georgia. I remember from my grandmother's passing that transporting a body across state lines is quite costly. Additionally, his parents were halfway across the country in the middle of their move. This GoFundMe campaign met it's goal in less than 24 hours. It is now well above its goal, which I know the family can use. To contribute to Gabe's campaign, click here.

The campaign has me thinking about this tragic event in a different way. I've come to realize that this young man had an incredible impact in his 15 short years. The range of the contributions has been from $5 to $1500. People from all walks of life, from high school students to successful business people, are joining together in support of Gabe's family. Gabe's life, though short, affected those around him. So did his family.

The tributes left on Facebook and on the campaign wall speak to a young man who had a positive impact on those he knew. I wonder, what kind of legacy do I want to leave? What kinds of things would people say about me after I'm gone? How would I like to be remembered?

The other part of this story that speaks to me is his family. Gabe comes from a strong family unit, full of love and respect for God's power and grace. His family is large, and each of them is processing this loss differently. The family gathered together last fall to celebrate Ruthie's wedding. Now, they will gather again to commemorate a short life well lived. The strength of strong family ties, built on a foundation of faith, can help sustain us through the ups and downs of life.

We have a finite number of days and hours on this earth. Gabe's days were shorter than any of his family could have imagined. And yet, he made an impact and memories that will carry on in the hearts of those he touched for years to come. So wherever we may be in life, make an impact. Leave the world a better place than you found it. Keep family ties strong. Whatever your giftings and contributions, make the most of them in the time that you have.

And to the Martinez, White and Stowe families, my thoughts and prayers are with you.